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Abstract

The purpose of this study was to determine how to maximize the audience ratings of premium channel television programming in the United States. Various options were considered, including a theoretical merger of networks to increase viewer ratings potential. The desired results would have led to a format that would increase the audience for original premium channel television shows. Research included a 30-item questionnaire of 72 viewers’ preferences and three interviews with television industry executives. Information gathered from these sources, as well as evidence from various texts focused on the television business, was analyzed to ascertain the feasibility of the options being considered. The findings showed that viewers were essentially satisfied with their current viewing choices. Evidence from the three executives interviewed showed that premium channel content had in fact been modified and altered in the past in an attempt to reach wider audiences, and that such ventures had almost never been successful. The results of such ventures had not been evident in the literature. Given the information gathered during this study, the outcome was that the section of the television industry analyzed was operating well with optimum performance, and that changes to content or the business models in place would not be recommended.